Compatibility with Bicycle FramesAlmost every
time someone puts a Phoenix motor on an aluminum front fork, the motor
tears the dropouts from the fork. The result is that the wheel takes off
without the bike, and you're left behind. Do not put a Phoenix motor on an
aluminum front fork. The good news is that most manufacturers who advertise an aluminum frame use a steel front fork, so grab a magnet off the refrigerator to take shopping. If it sticks, it's steel or Cromoly. If it doesn't stick, it's aluminum. You can use a Phoenix rear motor on aluminum IF the rear dropout is substantial, IE a plate rather than just a circular dropout.

Choosing a Frame

We believe there are many, many good choices of
bicycles, and everyone can find more than one frame or style that is
comfortable and suits their needs well. The ability to offer choices was
one of the primary drivers behind our initial investment in hub
technologies in 2003. The approach we recommend is to visit your local
bike shops. Educate yourself on what is available, and speak to the people
about electric power systems. We caution that most bike shops still see
their primary customers as traditional pedal bicyclists who want a bike that weighs 10 ounces. If they don't like
the idea of electrifying one of their bikes, go to a different store. More
and more bike shops are selling our systems. They are finding a whole new
set of customers in the commuter market, and those who are embracing electric power are
growing.

Front Suspension Forks

The Phoenix motor is too powerful for any stock production bicycle suspension fork.

Mixing water and electronics
We do not advise riding electric bikes on slippery
surfaces, especially commuter motors like Phoenix. They are too powerful
for wet road conditions, and a wheel can easily spin out from under
you if you give it too much throttle. The controller is
not waterproof. Normally you can keep your controller inside your cargo bag for
protection. If you controller overheats, it may be necessary to move it to
the bungees on top of the bag. The motor is not waterproof, but water
would have to be forced into it. Water, once evaporated, will not cause permanent damage, but repeated exposure to water over a long period of
time may rust the magnets. ElectricRider can refurbish motors.